City News

This month, the Mill Valley Fire Department Public Safety message is about Christmas Tree Safety.

The winter holiday season should be a joyous time of year. However, certain types of fires and injuries associated with holiday decorating are much more common during this season.

Christmas tree fires are not common, but when they occur, they are likely to be serious. On average, one of every 66 reported fires that began with a Christmas tree fires resulted in death. To view a video demonstrating the flammability of a dry Christmas tree vs. a tree that has been watered regularly, please click here.

Here are some interesting facts:

One of every three home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems.

A heat source too close to the Christmas tree starts one in five of these fires.